Psoriasis: A Healing Dialogue

Vijay: [Looking down, his voice weary] 

I’ve been dealing with psoriasis for over 10 years now.

I’ve tried countless treatments—ointments, steroids, medications—but nothing seems to help.

It just keeps coming back.

It’s affecting my life in so many ways.

I’m constantly stressed, and now, even my sleep is disturbed with the night shifts I have to work.

Holistic Healer: [Smiling gently, with a calm presence] 

I can understand how tough it must be for you, Vijay.

Psoriasis isn't just skin-deep; it’s a reflection of an imbalance inside, a sign that the body is struggling to find harmony.

But don’t worry, the body has incredible healing power.

We just need to approach it with patience and the right balance of Aahar, Vihar, Yoga, Aushad, minimalism, and some additional lifestyle changes.

Would you like to explore that with me?

Vijay: [Skeptical, but curious] 

I’m willing to try anything at this point.

But how can something like diet or yoga help with something so persistent like psoriasis?

Holistic Healer:

First, let’s look at Aahar—the food you eat.

In Ayurveda, it’s believed that the body is a reflection of the food we consume.

Eating foods that are heavy, fried, or processed can aggravate skin conditions, making inflammation worse.

A diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can calm your system and nourish your skin from within.

For your specific condition, I would suggest incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens, and avoiding foods like dairy, gluten, and red meat, which can trigger flare-ups.

Vijay: [Thoughtfully] 

I’ve never really thought about how my diet could impact my skin.

I mostly eat whatever is quick, given my job hours.

Holistic Healer:

I understand that.

With your night shifts, you may not feel like preparing meals.

But small changes can go a long way.

Try having smaller, lighter meals throughout the day instead of one big, late-night meal.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds are easy to prepare and digest.

Vijay: [Nods slowly] 

That sounds doable. But what about Vihar?

I don’t really have time for anything besides work and sleep.

Holistic Healer:

Vihar refers to lifestyle habits.

The stress of your job and lack of rest from night shifts are definitely affecting you. The body needs rest to heal.

In your case, adding something as simple as a daily walk can make a huge difference. Walking helps with circulation, reduces stress, and can calm inflammation.

Even a 15-30 minute walk daily can be restorative.

Vijay: [A bit hesitant] 

I don’t really walk much.

I feel too tired after work.

But I guess I could try it, even if just for 15 minutes.

Holistic Healer:

That’s a great start, Vijay.

The goal isn’t to overexert yourself, but to create a gentle rhythm of movement that nourishes your body.

Also, let’s talk about your habits around alcohol and smoking.

These can have a significant impact on your psoriasis.

Alcohol and smoking both disrupt the body's natural healing processes and can exacerbate inflammation.

Have you noticed any correlation between flare-ups and alcohol or smoking?

Vijay: [Looks down, a bit guilty] 

I do drink, especially after work, and I smoke too.

It helps me relax, but I know it's not great for me.

Holistic Healer:

I understand.

These habits are often ways to cope with stress, but they actually add to the burden on your body.

Reducing or quitting alcohol and smoking will allow your body to detox more effectively and support healing.

This doesn't mean you have to quit all at once, but small, manageable reductions can have a noticeable effect.

Vijay: [Sighs, looking conflicted] 

It’s hard to quit, especially with the pressure of work.

But I guess it’s time to try.

Holistic Healer:

Taking it one day at a time, Vijay, is key. Maybe start by reducing the amount you smoke or drink each week.

Set a realistic goal, like having alcohol only on weekends or cutting back one cigarette a day.

Gradual progress is still progress, and your body will thank you.

Vijay: [Nods slowly, his voice a little more hopeful] 

That makes sense.

But what about Yoga?

I’ve never really done it before.

Holistic Healer:

Yoga is powerful because it works on both the body and mind.

Through gentle stretching, breathing exercises, and relaxation, yoga can help reduce stress, which is crucial for your skin’s health.

You don’t need to do a full hour of advanced poses.

Start small with something like pranayama (breathing exercises) to calm your mind, and simple stretches like cat-cow or child’s pose.

These will help relieve tension, promote circulation, and reduce inflammation.

Vijay: [Looks intrigued] 

I suppose I can try it, even if just for a few minutes each day.

Holistic Healer:

Exactly.

Just 15 minutes a day can work wonders. And as for Aushad, we’ll look into herbal remedies.

Turmeric and neem, for example, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can help calm your skin from the inside out.

Vijay: [Thoughtful, with a hint of optimism] 

I’ve heard of neem.

Maybe I’ll try that.

Holistic Healer:

Wonderful.

And the final piece of the puzzle is minimalism—not just in your physical space, but also in your mind.

Let go of stress, worries, and unnecessary clutter in your life.

The more you simplify and declutter, the more space you create for healing.

This can include saying “no” to things that drain you, focusing on the essentials, and creating a peaceful environment at home.

Vijay: [Nods, slowly starting to feel a sense of relief] 

That actually sounds nice.

I feel like I’ve been holding on to so much for years—stress from work, the burden of all my treatments, and even expectations I put on myself.

Holistic Healer:

Healing isn't just about treating a condition.

It's about finding peace and balance in all areas of your life.

By focusing on Aahar, Vihar, Yoga, Aushad, and embracing minimalism, you're creating the right conditions for your body to heal itself.

It’s a gradual journey, and I’ll be here with you every step of the way.

Vijay: [Looking a little more hopeful] 

Thank you.

I feel like I can finally start working towards something that isn’t just another treatment.

A real change.

Holistic Healer:

You’re welcome, Vijay.

Trust in your body’s ability to heal, and take it one step at a time.

The path might be challenging, but it will also be worth it.